Meaning: Named for Otto Nagel, 20th century collector of Mexican orchids
Latin Pronunciation: nag-el-ee-EL-uh

Meaning: Named for Karl Wilhelm Naegeli, 19th century Swiss botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nee-JEE-lee-uh

Meaning: From the Japanese name for this species
Latin Pronunciation: NAY-jye

Meaning: From the Greek naias (river nymph, spring nymph); water nymph
Latin Pronunciation: NAY-as

Meaning: From the Greek word meaning spring or stream
Latin Pronunciation: NAM-uh

naked

Describes a bud which lacks bud scales.

Meaning: Of or from the Namaqualand region (South Africa)
Latin Pronunciation: na-MAWK-wan-um

Meaning: Of or from the Namaqualand region (South Africa)
Latin Pronunciation: na-MAWK-wah-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Namaqualand, southwest Africa
Latin Pronunciation: nam-uh-KWEN-sis

Meaning: Of or from Namcha Barwa (Namjagbarwa) canyon in Tibet, China
Latin Pronunciation: nam-cha-bar-WEN-sis

Meaning: From the Japanese name for this plant
Latin Pronunciation: nan-DEE-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nan-DYE-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Namuskluft, Namibia in southwest Africa
Latin Pronunciation: nam-us-kluft-EN-sis

Meaning: Very dwarf
Latin Pronunciation: nan-EL-luh

named cultivar

A cultivar that has been given a recognized horticultural name.

Meaning: Small, dwarf
Latin Pronunciation: NAN-uh

Meaning: Very dwarf
Latin Pronunciation: nan-EL-lus

Meaning: Very dwarf
Latin Pronunciation: nan-EL-lum

Meaning: Of or from Nanhoi, China
Latin Pronunciation: nan-ho-EN-sis

Meaning: Dwarf flowered
Latin Pronunciation: nan-ee-FLOR-a

Meaning: Dwarf flowered
Latin Pronunciation: nan-ee-FLOR-um

Meaning: Dwarf flowered
Latin Pronunciation: nan-ee-FLOR-us

Meaning: Dwarf leaves
Latin Pronunciation: na-nee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Dwarf leaves
Latin Pronunciation: na-nee-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Named after a region in Northern China
Latin Pronunciation: NAN-shan

Meaning: Dwarf leaves
Latin Pronunciation: na-nee-FOH-lee-uw

Meaning: Small bush
Latin Pronunciation: NAN-nor-rops

Latin Pronunciation: nan - kin - nen - siss
Meaning: of Nankin (China).

Meaning: Of or from Nantau (Nam Tau), in Kwangtung, China
Latin Pronunciation: nan-toh-EN-see

Meaning: Small, dwarf
Latin Pronunciation: NAN-um

Meaning: From the Greek nape (dell); in Greek mythology the Napaea were the Nymphs of the Valley
Latin Pronunciation: na-PAY-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:na-PEE-uh

Meaning: Of or from Nepal
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ahl-EN-see

Latin Pronunciation: nay-nus
Meaning: small, dwarf.

Meaning: From the Greek nape (dell); in Greek mythology the Napaea were the Nymphs of the Valley
Latin Pronunciation: na-PAY-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:NAY-pee-um

Latin Pronunciation: nap-pen-us
Meaning: Turnip-rooted.

Meaning: Of or from Nepal
Latin Pronunciation: nap-awl-EN-sis

Meaning: Like a small turnip, referring to the shape of the roots
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ELL-uh

Meaning: Turnip-leaved; also sometimes spelled napeaefolia
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ih-FOH-lee-uh

naphthalene

Insect repellent that is often placed in herbarium samples to prevent destruction of specimen.

Meaning: Turnip-leaved; also sometimes spelled napeaefolia
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Turnip-leaved; also sometimes spelled napeaefolia
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Turnip-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ih-FORM-ee

napiform root

A taproot which is broader than it is long, like a turnip.

Latin Pronunciation: nap-if-form-iss
Meaning: Turnip-shaped.

Meaning: Resembles Napus (turnip genus)
Latin Pronunciation: na-PIN-us

Meaning: Resembles Napus (turnip genus)
Latin Pronunciation: na-PIN-a

Meaning: From the Latin word for turnip
Latin Pronunciation: NAP-us

Meaning: Of or from Narbonne, France (city near the Mediterranean coast)
Latin Pronunciation: nar-bone-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nar-bone-EN-say

Latin Pronunciation: nar - bon - nen - siss
Meaning: of Narbonne (So. France).

narcotic

A drug used to relieve pain and induce sleep.

Meaning: From the Greek word meaning to numb, numbness
Latin Pronunciation: nar-SIS-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nar-KISS-us

Meaning: From the Greek Narthex, a hollow stem or cane.
Latin Pronunciation: nar-thek-ee-um

Meaning: From the Greek nardos, the ancient name for Spikenard, although the reason for the name is ambiguous; also used for other grasses
Latin Pronunciation: NARD-us

Meaning: From the Latin nassa, a narrow-necked basket used for catching fish; referring to the shape of the florets on some species
Latin Pronunciation: NAY-sell-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like Nasturtium (from the Latin nasus tortus, meaning "twisted nose" due to its taste)
Latin Pronunciation: nas-tur-shee-ih-FOH-lee-a

Meaning: From the Greek nassa (basket with a narrow neck)
Latin Pronunciation: nas-SEL-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like Nasturtium (from the Latin nasus tortus, meaning "twisted nose" due to its taste)
Latin Pronunciation: nas-tur-shee-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: From the Latin nasus tortus (twisted nose, referring to its taste) and aquaticum, referring to its natural habitat
Latin Pronunciation: nas-STUR-shum a-KWA-ti-kum

Meaning: Of or from Natal, a province in east South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: nuh-tal-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nuh-tol-EN-see

Meaning: From the Latin nasus tortus ("twisted nose" due to its taste, referring to Genus and not the common name which are in the genus Tropaeleum
Latin Pronunciation: nas-STUR-shum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nast-ur-TEE-um

naturalize (alt. naturalise)

1. To cause a plant to become established and grow undisturbed as if native. 2. The establishment of exotic species in the wild that can reproduce without human intervention.

Meaning: Of or from Natal, a province in east South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: nuh-tal-EN-sis
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nuh-tol-EN-sis

Latin Pronunciation: nay-tanz
Meaning: floating.

native plant

A plant occurring naturally in an area and not introduced by man; indigenous.

Meaning: Water snake
Latin Pronunciation: NAY-triks

Meaning: Water snake
Latin Pronunciation: NAY-trik-ees

natural layering

The spontaneous rooting of stems when they make contact with the soil.

Meaning: Possibly a variant of naucula (a little ship); referring to the valves of the fruit
Latin Pronunciation: NOK-lee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:NAWK-lee-uh

natural selection

The random and heterogenous contribution of offspring to the next generation by various genetic types belonging to the same populations. See also: artificial selection.

Meaning: Named for Mrs. Naureen Adele Cole, wife of Desmond T. Cole, 21st century South African botanist specializing in Lithops
Latin Pronunciation: nor-EEN-ee-ay

Meaning: Nauseating
Latin Pronunciation: naw-see-OH-suh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:naw-zee-OH-suh

Meaning: Nauseating
Latin Pronunciation: naw-see-OH-sus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:naw-zee-OH-sus

Meaning: Nauseating
Latin Pronunciation: naw-see-OH-sum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:naw-zee-OH-sum

Meaning: Of or from the Navajo tribe (Native American Indian tribe)
Latin Pronunciation: na-va-ho-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from the Navajo tribe (Native American Indian tribe)
Latin Pronunciation: na-va-ho-EN-sis

Meaning: Named for Francisco Fernandez Navarrete, 18th century Spanish botanist, physician
Latin Pronunciation: nav-ar-RET-ee-a

navicular

Boat-shaped.

Latin Pronunciation: nav-ik-yew-lay-riss
Meaning: of (like) a ship.

Meaning: Of or like a ship; boat-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: nav-ik-yoo-LAIR-ee

Meaning: Named for Greenleaf Cilley Nealley, 19th century Texas botanist
Latin Pronunciation: NEE-lee-eye

Meaning: Of or from Naples
Latin Pronunciation: nee-uh-pol-ih-TAY-nuh

Meaning: Of or from Naples
Latin Pronunciation: nee-uh-pol-ih-TAY-num

Meaning: Of or from the Nebrodi Mountains, near Sicily, Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ne-bro-DEN-sis

Meaning: Like a cloud
Latin Pronunciation: neb-yoo-LOH-suh

Meaning: Of or from Naples
Latin Pronunciation: nee-uh-pol-ih-TAY-nus

Meaning: Of or from the Nebrodi Mountains, near Sicily, Italy
Latin Pronunciation: ne-bro-DEN-see

Meaning: Like a cloud
Latin Pronunciation: neb-yoo-LOH-sum

nec

In nomenclature, this is placed between the names of two authors, indicating that neither named the taxon in a valid manner.

Latin Pronunciation: neb-yew-loh-sus
Meaning: cloudlike (of flower mass); obscure (of classification).

Meaning: Unexpected or unaware
Latin Pronunciation: nek-oh-PIN-a

neck

The lowest part of the capsule just above the point where it joins the seta.

Meaning: Unexpected or unaware
Latin Pronunciation: nek-oh-PIN-um

necrosis

The localized death of living tissue usually caused by a pathogen.

nectar

Sweet secretion of glands in many kinds of flowers.

nectariferous

Producing nectar.

Meaning: Unexpected or unaware
Latin Pronunciation: nek-oh-PIN-us

Meaning: Nectar or honey garlic
Latin Pronunciation: nek-tar-oh-SKOR-dum

nectarivore

An animal, including insects and bats, that eats nectar.

needle-like

Very long, narrow, and pointed at the tip.

nectary

Any place or organ where nectar is secreted.

Meaning: New Eragrostis (genus name meaning love grass)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-er-a-GROS-tis

needle

The very long and narrow leaf of pines and related trees.

Meaning: Overlooked
Latin Pronunciation: nay-GLEK-tuh

Meaning: Overlooked
Latin Pronunciation: nay-GLEK-tum

Latin Pronunciation: neg-lek-tus
Meaning: overlooked (of little value).

Meaning: From a Sanskrit name for the Vitex negundo, referring to the likeness of leaves to this species of Vitex
Latin Pronunciation: neg-UN-doh

Meaning: Named for Patrick Neill, 19th century Scottish printer and Secretary of the Caledonian Horticultural Society
Latin Pronunciation: NEEL-lee-uh

Meaning: Leaves like Nelumbo (Water Lotus); also spelled nelumbiifolia
Latin Pronunciation: nel-um-bee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Named for Gert Cornelius Nel, early 20th century botanist, authority on succulents, and professor of botany at Stellenbosch University in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: NEL-ee-eye

Meaning: Depending on the plant, named for a Nelson - Tagetes for Aven Nelson, Iris for Ike Nelson, Anthurium for EW Nelson; possibly others as well
Latin Pronunciation: nel-SON-ee-eye

Meaning: Leaves like Nelumbo (Water Lotus); also spelled nelumbifolia
Latin Pronunciation: nel-um-bee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek nema (thread) and stylis (column) referring to the slender style of the plant
Latin Pronunciation: nee-ma-STY-lis

Meaning: Named for Gert Cornelius Nel, early 20th century botanist, authority on succulents, and professor of botany at Stellenbosch University in South Africa
Latin Pronunciation: NEL-ee-a

Meaning: Latinized form of aboriginal name
Latin Pronunciation: nee-LUM-bee-um

nematode

Any of several unsegmented, elongated cylindrical worms of the phylum Nematoda. They may be parasitic in animals or plants, or free-living in soil or water. As parasites, they can cause damage to and even kill plants. Others can be benficial.

Meaning: From the Greek nema (thread) and anthos (flower), referring to the thread-like flower stalks
Latin Pronunciation: nee-ma-TAN-thus

Meaning: From the Greek nematos (thread) and lepis (scale) referring to the fringed scales at the base of the stamen
Latin Pronunciation: nee-ma-toh-LEP-is

Meaning: Latinized form of aboriginal name
Latin Pronunciation: nee-LUM-bo
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nay-LUM-bo

Meaning: Of the woods
Latin Pronunciation: nee-mor-OH-suh

Meaning: Of the woods
Latin Pronunciation: nee-mor-OH-sum

Meaning: Derived from Nemesis, the Goddess of justice and retribution in Greek mythology; a feast day for the peaceful dead was called Nemesia
Latin Pronunciation: ne-MEE-see-uh

Meaning: Of the woods
Latin Pronunciation: nee-mor-OH-sus

Meaning: Loves glades
Latin Pronunciation: nee-MOF-ih-luh

Meaning: From the Greek nema (thread), pous (foot) and anthos (flower), referring to the thread-like flower stalks
Latin Pronunciation: nem-oh-PAN-thus

Meaning: Of woods or groves
Latin Pronunciation: nem-or-RAY-lee

Meaning: Of the woods
Latin Pronunciation: nem-or-OH-suh

Latin Pronunciation: nem-or-ray-liss
Meaning: of grooves or woods.

Latin Pronunciation: nem-or-roh-sus
Meaning: of grooves (or shady places).

Meaning: Named For Lewis Caleb Beck, 19th century American professor of botany, minerology and zoology
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-BEK-ee-a

Meaning: New archaveletae (species named for Jos? Arechavaleta, 19th century Spanish naturalist and professor of Medical Botany in Montevideo; specialized in the flora of Uruguay)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-ar-eh-kav-uh-LET-ay-ee

Meaning: Of the woods
Latin Pronunciation: nem-OR-um

Meaning: Of the woods
Latin Pronunciation: nem-or-OH-sum

Meaning: Named for Franz Buxbaum, 20th century Austrian botanist; neo (new) to differentiate it from the Buxbaumia genus discovered by Johann Christian Buxbaum in the 1700s
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-buks-BAWM-ee-uh

Meaning: New buenekeri (species named for Rudi Werner B?neker)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-bew-NEK-er-ee

Meaning: Named for Dr. Charles Edwin Bessey, 19th century professor of Botany at the University of Nebraska (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-BESS-ee-a

Meaning: Named for Auguste Fran?ois Marie Glaziou, 20th century French plant collector in Brazil
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-gla-ZHOO-vee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek neo (new) and cheilos (lip)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-KY-lus

Meaning: Named for George Bentham, 19th century English botanical author
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-ben-THAM-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Achille Finet, 19th century French botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-fin-EE-tee-uh

Meaning: Named for Alfred Cogniaux, 19th century Belgian botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nee-o-koh-nee-OH-zee-uh

Meaning: New horstii (species named for Leopoldo Horst, 21st century Brazilian plant collector)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-HORST-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for John Lindley, 18th century British botanist and taxonomist; professor of botany in London University
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-lind-lee-YEL-uh

Meaning: From the Greek neo (new) and lobatus (lobed)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-loh-BAY-tum

Meaning: Originally called Marica for the water nymph Marica; renamed Neomarica, meaning new Marica
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-mar-EE-kuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ne-oh-MAR-ih-kuh

Meaning: New humbertii (species named for Henri Humbert, 20th century French Professor at the University of Algiers, botanist and plant collector in Madagascar)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-hum-BER-tee-eye

Meaning: Of or from New Mexico (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-meks-ih-KAY-num
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nee-oh-meks-ih-KAN-um

Meaning: Of or from New Mexico (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-meks-ih-KAY-nuh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nee-oh-meks-ih-KAN-uh

Meaning: Of or from New Mexico (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-meks-ih-KAY-nus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nee-oh-meks-ih-KAN-us

Meaning: New notocactus (genus name from the Greek n?tos, south and kaktos (cactus), referring to the plant's native habitat in South America)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-no-to-KAK-tus

Meaning: Named for Frederick William Moore, 20th century British horticulturist and director of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Edinburgh
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-MOOR-ee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: nee-ap-ol-it-tay-nus
Meaning: of Naples.

neoteny

The process of fulfilling a function in an imperfect or young state.

neotenic

Refers to retaining juvenile characteristics throughout the life span.

Meaning: New Regelia (genus named for Eduard August von Regel, 19th century German botanist superintendent of the botanic garden at St. Petersburg, Russia)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-reg-EL-ee-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nee-oh-re-JEE-lee-uh

Meaning: Variant of neapolitanum, meaning of or from Naples
Latin Pronunciation: ne-oh-pol-ih-TAY-nee-um

Meaning: Named for Antonio Raimondi, 19th century Italian-born geographer and naturalist in Peru
Latin Pronunciation: nee-oh-ray-MON-dee-a

Meaning: Bird's nest
Latin Pronunciation: nee-OT-ee-uh

neotype

A specimen selected to serve as the nomenclatural type when the material used to base the name of the taxon is missing. See also: holotype, lectotype, nomenclatural type, syntype, topotype, isotype.

Meaning: Of or from Nepal
Latin Pronunciation: nap-ahl-EN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nap-ahl-EN-say

Meaning: Possibly Ivy of Nepete, named for an Etruscan town which grew the plant
Latin Pronunciation: NEP-eh-tuh

Latin Pronunciation: nep-al-len-siss
Meaning: of Nepal.

Meaning: Resembles Nepenthes (genus name meaning no sorrow)
Latin Pronunciation: nep-enth-OY-deez

Meaning: No sorrow; banishes sorrow
Latin Pronunciation: nep-EN-theez

Meaning: Having leaves like Nepeta (Catnip)
Latin Pronunciation: nep-eh-ti-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: From the Greek word for kidney-like
Latin Pronunciation: nee-FRO-deez

Meaning: Resembling Nepeta (Catmint)
Latin Pronunciation: nep-et-OY-deez

Meaning: Kidney scale
Latin Pronunciation: nef-roh-LEP-iss

Meaning: Kidney-shaped seed
Latin Pronunciation: nef-roh-SPER-muh

Meaning: From the Greek nephrodes (kidney-like)
Latin Pronunciation: nee-FRO-dee-um

Meaning: Kidney-shaped (refers to the scales on this fern)
Latin Pronunciation: nef-roh-LEP-sis

Meaning: Kidney-shaped seed
Latin Pronunciation: nef-roh-SPER-mum

Meaning: Named for Neptune, Greek mythology god of the sea, rivers, and fountains
Latin Pronunciation: nep-TOO-nee-uh

Meaning: Kidney-shaped seed
Latin Pronunciation: nef-roh-SPER-mus

Meaning: Oleander-leaved (also spelled neriifolia)
Latin Pronunciation: ner-ee-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Oleander-leaved (also spelled nerifolia)
Latin Pronunciation: ner-ee-eye-FOH-lee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: neer - ee - if - foh - lee - us
Meaning: Oleander (Nerium) -flowered.

Meaning: From the Greek nerion (Oeander)
Latin Pronunciation: NER-ee-um

Meaning: Named for Nerine, a water nymph of Greek mythology
Latin Pronunciation: ne-REE-nee

nerve

A simple or unbranched vein or slender rib.

Meaning: Low down; lowly
Latin Pronunciation: NER-ter-uh

Meaning: Veined glumes (small, sterile bracts)
Latin Pronunciation: ner-vee-GLOO-me

Meaning: Veined glumes (small, sterile bracts)
Latin Pronunciation: ner-vee-GLOO-miss

nervine

An herbal medicine with a soothing and mildly sedative action.

Meaning: Conspicuous veins
Latin Pronunciation: ner-VO-sum

Meaning: Conspicuous veins
Latin Pronunciation: ner-VO-suh

Meaning: From the Latin nervus (vein) referring to the distinctly fine veins in the leaves
Latin Pronunciation: ner-VIL-ee-uh

Meaning: With little veins
Latin Pronunciation: ner-vyoo-LOH-suh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ner-vuh-LOH-suh

Latin Pronunciation: ner-voh-sus
Meaning: veined.

Meaning: With little veins
Latin Pronunciation: ner-vyoo-LOH-sum
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ner-vuh-LOH-sum

Meaning: With little veins
Latin Pronunciation: ner-vyoo-LOH-sus
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ner-vuh-LOH-sus

Meaning: Named for a Greek mythology figure
Latin Pronunciation: NES-say-uh

Meaning: Island-loving
Latin Pronunciation: nee-soh-FY-luh

Meaning: Island-loving
Latin Pronunciation: nee-soh-FY-lus

Meaning: Island-loving
Latin Pronunciation: nee-soh-FY-lum

net-veined

With a network of veins.

nest-fronds

Specialized, shield-shaped, basal fronds in some ferns which accumulate leaf litter forming a nest-like covering.

neuter (syn. neutral)

Without stamens or pistils.

netted

Net-veined; reticulate.

Meaning: With nerved petals
Latin Pronunciation: ner-roh-PET-ah-luh

day-neutral plant

A plant that blooms when the length of day is either long or short. See also: photoperiodism.

Latin Pronunciation: nev-ad-den-siss
Meaning: of the Sierra Nevadas (Spain or No. America).

Meaning: From the Sierra Nevada (Spain); or Nevada (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: nev-uh-DEN-see
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nev-uh-DEN-say

Meaning: Named for Reverend Joseph Cook Nevin, plant collector on Catalina Island (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: nev-IN-ee-eye

neutral soil

Soil having a pH of 7 and therefore neither acidic nor alkaline.

neve

Granular compacted snow at the head of a glacier, or similar snow elsewhere. See also: firn.

Meaning: Named for John Strong Newberry, 19th century American geologist and paleontologist
Latin Pronunciation: new-BER-ree-eye

Meaning: Anagram of reynaudia, named for French botanist Reynaud
Latin Pronunciation: nay-ROH-dee-a

Meaning: Of or from Niam-Niam, Central Africa
Latin Pronunciation: nee-um-nee-um-EN-sis

Meaning: Of or from Ngong Hills, Kenya
Latin Pronunciation: non-EN-sis

Meaning: Of or from Nice (formerly Nicaea Maritima) in southern France
Alternative Meaning:Of or from Iznik (formerly Nicaea), Turkey
Latin Pronunciation: ny-see-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Nice (formerly Nicaea Maritima) in southern France
Alternative Meaning:Of or from Iznik (formerly Nicaea), Turkey
Latin Pronunciation: ny-see-EN-sis

niche

1. Ecological niche--the role of a plant or animal in the environment, its relationship to all the living and nonliving things around it, e.g., a bat is the nighttime hunter of airborne insects. 2. Habitat niche--the specific part or smallest segment of a habitat occupied by an organism, e.g., a pillbug lives under moist rocks or detritus. See also: biotope.

Meaning: Named for Nichol; the specific namesake depends on the genus
Latin Pronunciation: nih-KOL-ee-eye

Meaning: Variant spelling of nicolai; named for Nicholas the First, Russian Emperor
Latin Pronunciation: NIK-oh-ly

Meaning: Of or from the Nicobar Islands, India
Latin Pronunciation: nik-oh-BAR-ih-kuh

Meaning: Named for Nicholas the First, Russian Emperor; also spelled nicholai
Latin Pronunciation: NIK-oh-ly

Meaning: Named for Gaetano Nicodemo, 18th century Italian botanist and curator of the Lyons botanic garden
Latin Pronunciation: nik-oh-DEE-mee-uh

Meaning: Nest-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: nid-ih-FOR-miss

Meaning: Nest of bird; bird's nest
Latin Pronunciation: NID-us AV-is

Latin Pronunciation: nye-dus
Meaning: Latin for nest.

Latin Pronunciation: nye-gray-tus
Meaning: blackish.

Latin Pronunciation: nye-jer
Meaning: black.

Meaning: Black
Latin Pronunciation: NY-gruh

Latin Pronunciation: nye-gress-senz
Meaning: becoming black.

Latin Pronunciation: nye-grik-anz
Meaning: black.

Meaning: Black spines
Latin Pronunciation: ny-gris-SPY-nus

nigrescent

Turning black.

Latin Pronunciation: nye-grik-korn-iss
Meaning: black- horned.

Meaning: Black spines
Latin Pronunciation: ny-gris-SPY-nuh

Meaning: Diminutive form of nigra (black)
Latin Pronunciation: ny-grih-TELL-a

Latin Pronunciation: nye-grip-eez
Meaning: black-stalked or -footed.

Meaning: Black-spotted
Latin Pronunciation: ny-groh-punk-TAY-tuh

Meaning: Black
Latin Pronunciation: NY-grus

Meaning: Black-spotted
Latin Pronunciation: ny-gro-punk-TAY-tus

Latin Pronunciation: nye - groh - frook - tus
Meaning: black-fruited.

Meaning: Black
Latin Pronunciation: NY-grum

Meaning: Of Nikko, Japan
Latin Pronunciation: nik-o-en-sey

Meaning: Black-spotted
Latin Pronunciation: ny-gro-punk-TAY-tum

Meaning: Of the River Nile, Egypt
Latin Pronunciation: nil-ee-AK-us
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ny-lee-AK-us

Meaning: From the Arabic name for a species of Morning Glory
Latin Pronunciation: nil

Meaning: Of or from Nikko, Japan
Latin Pronunciation: nik-o-en-sis

Meaning: Of or from the valley of the Nile River
Latin Pronunciation: ny-LOH-tee-kuh

Meaning: Of the River Nile, Egypt
Latin Pronunciation: nil-ee-AK-uh
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ny-lee-AK-uh

Meaning: Of the River Nile, Egypt
Latin Pronunciation: nil-ee-AK-um
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ny-lee-AK-um

Meaning: Named for Ari Delmo Nilson
Latin Pronunciation: nil-SON-ee-eye

Latin Pronunciation: nye-lot-ik-us
Meaning: of the Nile (region).

Meaning: Of or from Ningpo, China
Latin Pronunciation: ning-poh-EN-see

Meaning: Of or from Ningpo, China
Latin Pronunciation: ning-poh-EN-sis

Meaning: From the Greek niphos (snow) and bolus (pill)
Latin Pronunciation: nif-o-bol-uss

Meaning: From the Greek niphas (snow), referring to the white, unspotted flowers of the type species
Latin Pronunciation: nif-ay-EE-uh

Meaning: Like Niphaea (genus name from the Greek niphas, meaning snow)
Latin Pronunciation: nif-FID-ee-um

Meaning: Snow lover
Latin Pronunciation: nif-oh-FY-luh

Meaning: Snow lover
Latin Pronunciation: nif-oh-FY-lum

Meaning: Snow lover
Latin Pronunciation: nif-oh-FY-lus

Meaning: Of or from Japan; also spelled nipponicum
Latin Pronunciation: nip-ON-ih-kum

Meaning: From or native to Japan
Latin Pronunciation: ni-po-NEN-ses
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:ni-po-NEN-sis

Meaning: Japanese
Latin Pronunciation: nip-PON-ih-kuh

Meaning: Shiny, glossy
Latin Pronunciation: NI-ti-duh

Meaning: shining
Latin Pronunciation: NI-tens

Latin Pronunciation: nip-pon-ik-us
Meaning: of or from Japan.

Meaning: Very shiny, glossy
Latin Pronunciation: ni-ti-DIS-ih-mum

Meaning: Japanese (also spelled niponicum)
Latin Pronunciation: nip-PON-ih-kum

Meaning: Very shiny, glossy
Latin Pronunciation: ni-ti-DIS-ih-mus

Meaning: Shiny, glossy
Latin Pronunciation: NI-ti-dum

nitrogen fixation

The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen into an organic form usable by plants and other organisms. This can be through the agency of soil microorganisms, particularly rhizobia living in nodules on the roots of legumes, or by industrial methods.

Meaning: Very shiny, glossy
Latin Pronunciation: ni-ti-DIS-ih-ma

Latin Pronunciation: nit-id-us
Meaning: shining.

Meaning: Growing in or near snow, or referring to the white color
Latin Pronunciation: niv-VAL-uh

nitrification

The oxidation, as by bacteria, of ammonium to nitrites and the further oxidation of nitrites to nitrates.

Meaning: Snow white
Latin Pronunciation: NIV-ee-uh

Meaning: Snow white
Latin Pronunciation: NIV-ee-um

Latin Pronunciation: niv-ee-us
Meaning: snow-white.

Meaning: Snow white
Latin Pronunciation: niv-OH-suh

Meaning: Snow white
Latin Pronunciation: niv-OH-sum

Latin Pronunciation: niv-voh-sus
Meaning: snowy white.

Meaning: Notable, showy
Latin Pronunciation: no-BIL-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:no-BIL-ay

nitrogen carrier

A material such as a commercial fertilizer that contains the essential mineral nitrogen.

Latin Pronunciation: noh-bil-iss
Meaning: noble, outstanding.

Latin Pronunciation: noh-bill-ee-or
Meaning: rather noble,impressive.

Latin Pronunciation: noh-bil-Liss-im-us
Meaning: very notable or impressive.

Meaning: Night-blooming
Latin Pronunciation: nok-tee-FLOR-us

Meaning: Named for Domenico Nocca, 19th century Italian botanist
Latin Pronunciation: no-KA-ee-a

Meaning: Night-blooming
Latin Pronunciation: nok-tee-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Night-blooming
Latin Pronunciation: nok-tee-FLOR-um

nocturnal

Active only at night; flowering only at night.

Meaning: Of the night
Latin Pronunciation: NOK-ter-num
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:nok-TER-num

Latin Pronunciation: niv - vay - liss
Meaning: ref. to snow (snowy white).

node

The place upon a stem which normally bears a leaf or whorl of leaves.

Latin Pronunciation: nok-turn-us
Meaning: night-blooming.

Meaning: Flowers from the nodes
Latin Pronunciation: no-dee-FLOR-uh

Meaning: Flowers from the nodes
Latin Pronunciation: no-dee-FLOR-um

Meaning: Of the night
Latin Pronunciation: NOK-ter-nuh

Latin Pronunciation: nod-if-f/oh-rus
Meaning: flowers at nodes.

Meaning: With conspicuous nodes
Latin Pronunciation: nod-OH-sum

Meaning: With conspicuous nodes
Latin Pronunciation: nod-OH-suh

nodose

Knotty or knobby.

nodulose

Provided with little knots or knobs.

Latin Pronunciation: nod-doh-sus
Meaning: with nodes or joints.

Latin Pronunciation: nod-yew-/oh-sus
Meaning: having nodules or small protuberances (tubercles).

Meaning: Nut; most sources agree on the French for Hazelnut
Latin Pronunciation: noy-SET

Meaning: Do not touch
Latin Pronunciation: NO-lee TAN-ger-ee

nomenclatural synonym

Any one of two or more different names based on the same plant specimen.

nomenclatural type

That plant with which the name is permanently associated, not necessarily the most typical or representative of the taxon. See also: holotype, lectotype, neotype, isotype, syntype, topotype.

nomenclature

A system or set of terms or symbols; the system of providing taxonomic names for organisms.

nomen (pl. nomina)

Literally, "name," particularly a scientific name assigned according to the Codes of Nomenclature.

nomen ambigua (abr. nom. ambig., alt. nomina ambigua)

A name that has long referred to different taxa and should be abandoned.

nomen illegitimum (abr. nom. illegit.)

A name that was validly published, but contravenes the International Code for botanical nomenclature; A name which was superfluous or had already been applied to another plant.

nomen confusum (abr. nom. confus., alt. nomina confusa)

A name based on a type, the herbarium specimens later proving to be two or more taxa.

nomen conservandum (abr. nom. cons., alt. nomina conseranda)

A taxon name that has been formally accepted under the International Code for botanical nomenclature as the correct name contrary to the usual principles of botanical nomenclature.

nomen novum (abr. nom. nov.)

A name proposed to replace a name which has been rejected.

nomen nudum (abr. nom. nud., alt. nomina nuda)

Literally, "a naked name." Used in nomenclature to refer to the fact that the name was published without a description or diagnosis and is therefore not acceptable under the International Code for botanical Nomenclature.

Meaning: Without marks
Latin Pronunciation: non-SKRIP-tus

nomen rejiciendum (abr. nom. rejic., alt. nomina rejicienda)

Literally, "a name to be rejected." Used in nomenclature when a decision has been made to conserve an older name and the newer one is rejected. See also: nomen conservandum.

Meaning: Without marks
Latin Pronunciation: non-SKRIP-tuh

Meaning: From the Greek nomos (meadow) and charis (grace, loveliness)
Latin Pronunciation: nom-oh-KAIR-iss

Meaning: Without marks
Latin Pronunciation: non-SKRIP-tum

non

In nomenclature, it means 'not' as in "Artemisia lanata Willd. non Lam."---when Willdenow in 1823 gave a new plant the same name that Lamarmarck had used in 1783 for a different plant.

nonresupinate

Refers to a leaf or flower inverted by a twisting of the petiole or pedicels; in Orchidaceae this can result in 'upside down flowers' with the lip at the top.

nonvascular

Refers to organisms with no tissues or vessels to carry water, minerals, etc., such as mosses, fungi, algae, lichens, etc.

nongovernmental organization (abr. NGO)

A nonprofit group or association organized outside of institutionalized political structures to gain particular social objectives such as environmental protection.

Latin Pronunciation: non - skrip - tus
Meaning: undescribed (unclassified).

Meaning: Of or from Nootka Sound, British Columbia
Latin Pronunciation: noot-kuh-TEN-sis

Meaning: Named for Alexander Von Nordmann, 19th century German botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nord-man-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: From the Normanby River region, Australia
Latin Pronunciation: nor-MAN-bee-uh

Meaning: Named for Knut Norstog, contemporary American botanist specializing in cycads
Latin Pronunciation: nor-STOG-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Samuel Norris, 20th century American hybridizer who developed Pardancanda by crossing Pardanthopsis and Belamcanda chinensis
Latin Pronunciation: nor-RISS-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for 19th century artist Marianne North
Latin Pronunciation: north-ee-AY-nuh

Meaning: Latinization of conoro-antegri, the vernacular name of this plant in Guyana
Latin Pronunciation: nor-AN-tee-uh

Meaning: Noteworthy
Latin Pronunciation: NO-tuh

nostoc

A blue-green alga with filaments formed of chains of cells.

Meaning: Worthy of notice
Latin Pronunciation: no-tuh-BIL-ee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:no-TAH-bil-ee

Meaning: Worthy of notice
Latin Pronunciation: no-tuh-BIL-is
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:no-TAH-bil-is

Latin Pronunciation: noh-tay-tus
Meaning: marked.

notch

A v-shaped indentation.

nothomorph

A term used in taxonomy to designate different hybrid forms derived from the same parent species, ranking essentially as a variety.

Meaning: From the Greek nothos (false) and Calais (a Greek mythology figure with scales on his back)
Latin Pronunciation: noth-oh-KAL-ays

Meaning: From the Greek n?tos (south) and kaktos (cactus), referring to the plant's native habitat in South America
Latin Pronunciation: no-to-KAK-tus

Meaning: From the Greek nothos (false) and chlaina (cloak)
Latin Pronunciation: no-tho-LAY-na

Meaning: Noteworthy
Latin Pronunciation: NO-tum

Meaning: Noteworthy
Latin Pronunciation: NO-tus

Meaning: New
Latin Pronunciation: NO-vuh

Meaning: From the Greek noton (back) and tylos (hump)
Latin Pronunciation: no-TY-lee-uh

Latin Pronunciation: noh-vee-see-zar-reeee
Meaning: of or pertaining to New Jersey.

Latin Pronunciation: noh-vee-an-glih-ee
Meaning: of or pertaining to New England.

Meaning: Of or from New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific near Australia
Latin Pronunciation: NO-vay kal-lid-OH-nee-ay

Latin Pronunciation: noh-vee-zee-landih-ee
Meaning: of or from New Zealand.

Meaning: Of or from New York (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: no-vee-bor-uh-SEN-see

Latin Pronunciation: noh-vee-bor-ass-sensiss
Meaning: of or pertaining to New York.

Latin Pronunciation: noh-vye-bell-jye
Meaning: of New York.

Meaning: Of or from New York (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: NO-vee BEL-jee-eye
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:NO-vee BEL-gee-eye

novirame

A flowering--later fruiting-- shoot arising from a primocane.

Meaning: Of or from New England (U.S.)
Latin Pronunciation: NO-vrum ANG-lee-rum

Meaning: New
Latin Pronunciation: NO-vus

noxious weeds

Plants which may cause harm to collectors, such as poison ivy,Toxicodendron radicans; or invasive exotics or parasites and their host plants which may harm the ecosystem or agriculture of an area. See also: quarantine.

Meaning: Cloud
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-bee-a

Meaning: New
Latin Pronunciation: NO-vum

Meaning: Of the clouds
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-bee-kuh

Latin Pronunciation: new-bik-ol-us
Meaning: living among clouds.

Meaning: Cloud dweller
Latin Pronunciation: noo-bee-KOH-lee

Meaning: Of the clouds
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-bee-kum

Meaning: Cloud dweller
Latin Pronunciation: noo-bee-KOH-luh

Meaning: Born in clouds, referring to high altitude plants
Latin Pronunciation: noo-bee-GEE-nuh

Meaning: Born in clouds, referring to high altitude plants
Latin Pronunciation: noo-bee-GEE-nus

Meaning: Of the clouds
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-bee-kus

Meaning: Cloud
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-bee-um

Meaning: Cloud-mountain, possibly referring to the high altitude of the native habitat
Latin Pronunciation: noo-bee-MON-tan-us

Meaning: Cloud
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-bee-us

nucellus (adj. nucellar)

The central body of the ovule that encloses the female gametophyte; equivalent to the megasporangium.

nucellus (adj. nucellar)

The central body of the ovule that encloses the female gametophyte; equivalent to the megasporangium.

Meaning: Nut-bearing
Latin Pronunciation: noo-SIFF-er-uh

Latin Pronunciation: new-sif-er-us
Meaning: nut-bearing.

Meaning: Nut-bearing
Latin Pronunciation: noo-SIFF-er-um

nucleolus

A special body in the nucleus.

Meaning: Born in clouds, referring to high altitude plants
Latin Pronunciation: noo-bee-GEE-num

nucleus (pl. nuclei)

1. The germ cell of the ovule, which by fertilization becomes the seed; the kernel of a seed. 2. The part of the protoplasm that contains the chromosomes.

nucleus (pl. nuclei)

1. The germ cell of the ovule, which by fertilization becomes the seed; the kernel of a seed. 2. The part of the protoplasm that contains the chromosomes.

Latin Pronunciation: new-dik-kaw-liss
Meaning: bare- stemmed.

Meaning: With leafless stems
Latin Pronunciation: new-dee-KAW-lee
Alternative Self-Pronouncing:new-dee-KAW-lay

Meaning: Nude, naked
Latin Pronunciation: NEW-duh

Latin Pronunciation: new-day-tus
Meaning: bare, stripped.

Meaning: Naked flower, usually referring to flowering prior to leaf emergence
Latin Pronunciation: noo-dee-FLOR-uh

Latin Pronunciation: new-dif-fioh-rus
Meaning: naked- flowered.

Meaning: Nude, naked
Latin Pronunciation: NEW-doom

Meaning: Naked flower, usually referring to flowering prior to leaf emergence
Latin Pronunciation: noo-dee-FLOR-um

Latin Pronunciation: new-dus
Meaning: bare, naked.

Meaning: Of or from the Nueces River or Nueces-Rio Grande Coastal Basin; nueces means 'nut' in Spanish
Latin Pronunciation: new-ay-SEN-see

nullipores

Calcareous red seaweed.

Meaning: Of or from Algeria, North Africa (formerly Numidia), located between Mauritania and Carthage
Latin Pronunciation: nu-MID-ih-kum

Meaning: Of or from Algeria, North Africa (formerly Numidia), located between Mauritania and Carthage
Latin Pronunciation: nu-MID-ih-ka

Latin Pronunciation: new-miss-may-tus
Meaning: coin- like.

Meaning: Having foliage like nummularia (species name originating from nummus, money; referring to small, circular leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: num-yoo-lay-ree-ih-FOH-lee-uh

Meaning: Coin-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: num-ew-LAH-ree-uh

Meaning: Having foliage like nummularia (species name originating from nummus, money; referring to small, circular leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: num-yoo-lay-ree-ih-FOH-lee-um

Meaning: Having foliage like nummularia (species name originating from nummus, money; referring to small, circular leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: num-yoo-lay-ree-ih-FOH-lee-us

Meaning: Resembling nummularia (species name originating from nummus, money; referring to small, circular leaves)
Latin Pronunciation: num-yoo-lay-ree-OY-deez

Meaning: Of or from the Nueces River or Nueces-Rio Grande Coastal Basin; nueces means 'nut' in Spanish
Latin Pronunciation: new-ay-SEN-sis

Meaning: Coin-shaped
Latin Pronunciation: num-ew-LAH-ree-um

Latin Pronunciation: num-mew-/ay-ree-us
Meaning: coin-like (round and thin).

Meaning: From the Persian (Arabic) name for water lily
Latin Pronunciation: NOO-far

nurse tree

A fast-growing tree planted with, or left in place near, a slow-growing, permanent tree in order to provide shade and wind protection for the permanent tree until it has reached useful size.

Meaning: Named for Nussbaumer
Latin Pronunciation: nuss-baw-mer-ee-AH-nuh

nut

A dry, hard indehiscent 1- celled and 1- seeded fruit, though usually resulting from a compound ovary.

nurse grass

A fast-growing temporary grass included in most grass seed mixtures to give rapid coverage and protect permanent grasses from soil erosion, sunscald, etc.

Latin Pronunciation: new-tanz
Meaning: nodding.

Meaning: Named for Thomas Nuttall, 19th century naturalist and explorer born in England, but spent most of his adult life exploring America
Latin Pronunciation: nuh-TALL-ee-eye

nutant

Nodding, usually referring to the entire inflorescence rather than a single flower; cernuous.

Meaning: Of or from Nootka Sound, British Columbia
Latin Pronunciation: nut-KAN-uh

nutlet

One of several small, nut-like parts of a compound fruit; a diminutive nut.

Meaning: Named for Thomas Nuttall, 19th century English botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nut-al-ANTH-us

Meaning: Named for Thomas Nuttall, 19th century English botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nut-al-ee-AH-nuh

Meaning: Named for French amateur botanist; M. de la Nux from Reunion Island
Latin Pronunciation: NUKS-ee-uh

Meaning: Named for Thomas Nuttall, 19th century English botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nut-AL-ee-eye

Meaning: Named for Thomas Nuttall, 19th century English botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nut-al-ee-AH-num

Meaning: Night-blooming
Latin Pronunciation: nyk-ta-JEE-nee-uh

Meaning: Named for Thomas Nuttall, 19th century English botanist
Latin Pronunciation: nut-al-ee-AH-nus

Meaning: The Nyctaginea (four o'clock) family; (from the Greek nyx or nyxtos, meaning night-blooming)
Latin Pronunciation: nyk-taj-i-NAY-see-ay

Meaning: Night-blooming
Latin Pronunciation: nyk-ta-JEE-nee-us

Meaning: Night-blooming
Latin Pronunciation: nyk-ta-JEE-nee-um

Meaning: Resembles four o'clocks (nyctaginea means night-blooming)
Latin Pronunciation: nyk-ta-jee-NOY-deez

Latin Pronunciation: nik-tik-al-us
Meaning: night-blooming.

Meaning: Of or from Nymans Gardens in Handcross, Sussex England
Latin Pronunciation: ny-man-SEN-sis

Meaning: Named for Carl Fredrick Nyman, 19th century Swedish botanist
Latin Pronunciation: ny-MAN-ee-uh